Warning of travel disruption and power cuts as Storm Gareth blows in

Heavy rain has hit parts of the country as Storm Gareth is set to bring potentially disruptive weather to the UK.

Weather warnings covering England, Wales, Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland are in force for Tuesday and Wednesday as forecasters warned that the storm, which was named on Monday, could bring travel disruption and power cuts.

A Met Office yellow warning of rain for parts of northern England came into force just after midnight on Tuesday and will last until midday.

Forecasters said 2in-2.4in (50mm-60mm) of rain was possible over higher ground in Cumbria.

Highways England said officers were dealing with severe flooding on the northbound entry slip road to Charnock Richard services off the M6 in Lancashire, while a lane was closed on the M6 southbound near junction 33, at Hampson Green in Lancashire, because of a flood.

The Environment Agency said staff had been working through the night in Cumbria and Lancashire to monitor rain and river levels.

It said on Twitter: “We’ve been out throughout the night clearing grids & removing debris in #Cumbria & #Lancs to reduce flood risk during #stormgareth.

“Rain is falling on already wet catchments, therefore it’s important that people do remain vigilant, be prepared & know your risk.”